# Tesla Unveils Redesigned Roadster Featuring SpaceX Rocket Thrusters The high-performance electric sports car targets a 2028 production launch date. - **Source:** [Technology News Today, Latest Tech News | The Hindu](https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/) - **Published:** 2026-10-16 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/43f929d0-16fc-4f5a-95d7-e81710cc23ce ## Redesigned Roadster Reveal Tesla unveiled a redesigned two-seater Roadster at a SpaceX facility in McGregor, Texas. The vehicle features rocket-style thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX, enabling aerial maneuvers like jumping over trucks. Despite the dramatic demonstration, Tesla confirmed that production for this high-performance electric sports car will not commence until 2028. ## Technical Performance Metrics Engineering chief Lars Moravy stated the Roadster accelerates from zero to 60 mph in under one second. The vehicle reaches top speeds exceeding 230 mph, with Musk suggesting potential for even higher performance. However, the current range is listed at over 300 miles, significantly lower than the original 2017 prototype promises. ## Tiered Reservation Structure Tesla has opened reservations with distinct deposit requirements based on performance tiers. A standard Performance version requires a $50,000 deposit, while the Thrust variant demands $250,000. An invite-only Rocket variant, featuring a full flight system, represents the most exclusive model, though specific pricing for the final production units remains officially unannounced. ## Strategic Corporate Alignment Analysts suggest the collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX serves to highlight potential synergies between the two companies. Some observers view the event as a move by Elon Musk to generate interest in a possible merger. This integration of aerospace technology into automotive design remains a central theme of the current project. ## Shift in Corporate Focus The Roadster reveal occurs as Tesla pivots toward artificial intelligence, self-driving technology, and robotics. The company recently ceased sales of Model S and X vehicles to prioritize Optimus humanoid robot production. This strategic transition emphasizes autonomous systems over traditional human-driven automotive manufacturing, marking a significant change in the firm's long-term roadmap. ## Market and Investor Sentiment Investor reaction remains mixed, with some analysts labeling the event an engineering flex lacking immediate commercial value. Experts like Gene Munster noted the car serves to challenge traditional automakers rather than drive significant financial growth. Investors are currently prioritizing upcoming third-quarter financial results over the spectacle of the new halo vehicle. ## Historical Context of Roadster The original Roadster, released in 2008 using a Lotus Elise chassis, established Tesla's reputation in the electric vehicle market. The second-generation version has faced repeated delays since its initial 2017 announcement. This latest iteration aims to serve as a halo car, showcasing the company's best engineering capabilities to the global market. ## Financial Priorities Ahead Tesla is scheduled to report third-quarter results on October 21, 2026. Analysts emphasize that margin and cash flow figures will carry more weight with investors than the Roadster demonstration. Despite the excitement surrounding the new vehicle, the company's financial performance remains the primary metric for evaluating its current market position. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/teslas-new-roadster-turns-in-air-with-spacex-thrusters-wont-land-until-2028/article71591112.ece — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._